The timeless natural stone in the spotlight of architecture

In the world of (interior) architecture, a silent star has emerged - Travertine. This sand-colored, distinctly grooved natural stone imparts a warm and cozy atmosphere to spaces and has become a contemporary material of choice. In this article, we will explore the history of Travertine and shed light on why the material is currently in high demand in the architecture scene.

Historical background:

Travertine, a porous limestone, has an intriguing history and has been a defining building material for centuries. The Romans used it for iconic structures such as temples, bathhouses, or the Colosseum. In architectural history, Travertine also played a significant role in the construction of St. Peter's Basilica, the Trevi Fountain, and Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona Pavilion. Thanks to its lightweight and stability, Travertine is ideal for thermal and acoustic insulation, revealing its serene aesthetics as a polished floor or wall surface.

Travertine in modern architecture:

Currently, Travertine is experiencing a renaissance and is highly regarded by many interior designers. It competes successfully with marble and terrazzo. Not only in architecture but also in the fashion industry, Travertine finds application, such as in the announcement of the Louis Vuitton Cruise Collection 2023 at the Salk Institute in California, where Travertine dominates the courtyard. Designer Steven Volpe even used a striped Travertine bathtub as a central element in a Manhattan apartment, featured on the cover of the February issue of American AD.

Versatile applications:

Travertine is extremely versatile and can be used both indoors and outdoors. When used outdoors, it's important to note that the natural stone develops a patina over time and can become mottled. In addition to traditional architectural applications, there has been an increasing presence of Travertine furniture and accessories on the market lately. From tables for indoor or outdoor use to stools and side tables - the organic structure of Travertine exudes warmth and coziness while maintaining an elegant presence.

Conclusion:

Travertine, the quiet star of the (interior) architecture scene, has a rich history and is simultaneously a modern material of choice. Ulisse Orlandini Naturstein GmbH offers high-quality Travertine that is not only timeless but also extremely versatile in application. Whether in grand structures or as stylish furniture and accessories - Travertine adds elegant accents.